Getting Lost in “Saltburn”
With its Gatsby-esque visuals, stellar ensemble cast, and many disturbing moments that will make audiences squirm, Emerald Fennell’s Saltburn is far from boring. However, with the lackluster writing, the film ultimately feels superficial and predictable.
Saltburn takes place in 2006 and follows Oliver Quick (Barry Keoghan), a new student at Oxford University who struggles to fit in amongst his affluent peers. However, after a chance encounter, Oliver becomes friends with Felix Catton (Jacob Elordi), a popular student who takes him under his wing. After the sudden death of Oliver’s father, Felix invites him to his family’s estate of Saltburn for the summer. At Saltburn, we receive a glimpse into the debauched private lives of the ultra wealthy and discover that our protagonist is not as innocent as he may seem.
Linus Sandgren’s cinematography alongside the backdrop of a Baroque English manor provide quite the spectacle. The 1.33:1 aspect ratio makes the film feel as though we’re watching old home videos or peeping through one of Saltburn’s windows. Regardless, there’s this sense that we’re watching something we’re not supposed to see.
There is a brilliant juxtaposition between the opulent setting of Saltburn and the early-2000s soundtrack and clothing. The contemporary blends with the traditional as the characters wear oversized rugby shirts, sing “Low” by Flo Rida at karaoke, and read Harry Potter within the confines of the extravagant estate.
Aside from the aesthetics, the star-studded cast delivers some superb performances. Keoghan proves that he’s a worthy leading man while Elordi makes it difficult to not fall in love with Felix. Rosamund Pike, who plays matriarch Lizbeth Catton, is particularly notable with her brilliant comedic timing and one-liners that are guaranteed to get a laugh.
Unfortunately, Fennell is not as concise with this narrative as she was with her debut film Promising Young Woman (2020). Is it commentary on class? Is it a tale of obsessive love? Is it a revenge story? Fennell is trying to say several things at once, but by the end, she says nothing at all. The characters are so underwritten that it’s difficult to determine what their motivations are. As a result, the ending feels rather disjointed when considering how little we actually know.
Even if it’s not as complex as it wants you to believe, Saltburn remains fascinating and fearless. This film is not for the faint of heart, but if you’re a fan of The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999), Eyes Wide Shut (1999), or Midsommar (2019), then it’s definitely worth a watch.
Saltburn is R-rated with a runtime of 127 minutes. It’s currently playing at Violet Crown and Regal in Stonefield.
